Hovenier: The US supports the transformation of the KSF into an army

The US Ambassador to Kosovo, Jeffrey Hovenier, stated that the United States supported the ten-year transformation of the Kosovo Security Force into an army, and he emphasized that those forces had displayed maturity during the conflict in Banjska, avoiding provocations that could have led to further escalation, as reported by Reporteri.

The Ministry of Defense and the Kosovo Security Force held their annual international conference today, "KSF and Partners 2023."

"I want to point out that during the attacks by armed paramilitary groups on Kosovo's sovereignty on September 24, the Kosovo Security Force and the Minister of Defense demonstrated their professional maturity and patience, enhancing their reputation as a reliable partner by avoiding provocations that could have resulted in further escalation," Hovenier said.

He added that there was not any problem in the ongoing efforts for the United States and Kosovo to work together to help the KSF successfully complete the transformation process into an army.

Minister of Defense Ejup Maqedonci stated that thanks to the intervention of the Kosovo police, the attack in Banjska had been unsuccessful, however, he noted that "such attacks could be repeated as long as Serbia conducts military exercises near the Kosovo border."

"In the northern part of the country, Serbian groups attempted to take territory. Thanks to the police, their units, and their cooperation with our partners, they demonstrated their professionalism. Serbia always has hegemonic interests," Maqedonci said.

He added that Kosovo would not pose a threat to anyone.

"But we will be partners, and over these years, we have undergone a true transformation. The budget for the KSF has increased by 110 percent. In the last two years, we have invested in the weapon system and participated in military exercises. In addition, the KSF has gone to the Middle East for training and peacekeeping operations. We are also proud of the training center that provides training for domestic and international operators," Maqedonci said.